Karnataka Politics Live Updates: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hosted a breakfast for his cabinet colleagues at his official residence here on Thursday.
At the meeting, Siddaramaiah announced his decision of stepping down from the post of Chief Minister.
His current deputy and possible successor, DK Shivakumar and other cabinet colleagues attended the breakfast meeting.
In a picture shared by the Chief Minister's Office, Siddaramaiah is seen hugging Shivakumar. In another picture, CM hopeful Shivakumar is seen touching the feet of Siddaramaiah and taking his blessings.
It is being speculated that Siddaramaiah will announce his stepping down from the Chief Minister post to make way for Shivakumar, possibly at the breakfast meeting.
The Chief Minister reportedly sought the Governor's appointment after the party high command apparently asked him to make way for a leadership change in the state. He also said he will speak on the matter on Thursday.
Though the 77-year-old veteran was likely to meet Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot later today to apparently tender his resignation, Lok Bhavan sources said the Governor is not in the city; he has left for Indore for personal reasons.
Here Are The Karnataka Politics Live Updates:
Karnataka Live Updates: Congress Leaders Back DK Shivakumar For Chief Minister Post
Karnataka politics witnessed a major development on Thursday after senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah confirmed that he would step down as Chief Minister, bringing an end to the prolonged leadership tussle within the party over the state's top post.
The announcement also put to rest months of speculation surrounding the power-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and his deputy D.K. Shivakumar that had frequently dominated political discussions and at times threatened to overshadow the functioning of the government in the state.
Siddaramaiah also confirmed that Shivakumar would succeed him, paving the way for a leadership transition within the Karnataka Congress.
Reacting to the development, Maharashtra Congress MLA, Vijay Wadettiwar, said the transition was linked to earlier discussions within the party before the elections.
"Before the elections, there were some discussions, and this is all related to that. Siddaramaiah is a very senior and respected leader in our party. He will be given due respect in the party, as he has made a significant contribution and has done good work as Chief Minister," Wadettiwar said.
He further added, "In this situation, bringing in new leadership and youth leadership while respecting senior leaders and giving them good positions and opportunities to work, is a positive step."
Supporters of Shivakumar also expressed enthusiasm over the expected change in leadership. Karnataka Sena Pade District President Tejesh Lokesh Gowda said prayers were offered for Shivakumar to become the next Chief Minister.
(PTI)
Karnataka Live Updates: "Plan Has Already Been Formulated": Minister On Karnataka Chief Minister Transition
Ahead of the chief ministerial transition in Karnataka, state minister KH Muniyappa on Thursday emphasised that all leaders in the state are working together under the leadership of one Chief Minister and asserted that the party's focus remains on winning the next election through unity and coordination.
Speaking to reporters, Muniyappa said, "The Governor is currently not at the main office (headquarters). However, everything will be fine. We are all working together under the leadership of one Chief Minister. A plan has already been formulated."
Stressing the importance of organisational solidarity for future political battles, he said, "Our goal is to achieve victory in the next election. For that, everyone must work together. Success is possible only if we work with unity and coordination."
Calling it a firm decision of the leadership, Muniyappa further added, "Even though the Governor is not present, the necessary processes will begin soon."
(ANI)
Karnataka Live Updates: Siddaramaiah To Resign At 3:00 PM, DK Shivakumar Will Become Chief Minister: Karnataka Minister
Karnataka Minister HK Patil on Thursday confirmed that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will resign at 3 pm and that Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar would take over as the next Chief Minister following a key breakfast meeting held in Bengaluru.
"Chief Minister will resign at 3 o'clock. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that we will make DK Shivakumar the new Chief Minister, he will become the Chief Minister," HK Patil told reporters after the meeting at Siddaramaiah's official residence 'Kaveri'.
There is also an indication that outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramiah may travel to Delhi to get a final nod on the picks for Deputy Chief Minister.
(ANI)